2027: INEC Raises Alarm Over Staff Exodus, Seeks Better Funding, Welfare

The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, has expressed concern over the growing loss of experienced personnel, saying poor remuneration is driving skilled staff away as preparations intensify for the 2027 general elections.

Amupitan also appealed for improved funding and enhanced welfare packages for INEC workers, warning that the Commission could face a widening skills gap if urgent steps are not taken.

He spoke on Tuesday during a courtesy visit to the Chairman of the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), Dr. Mohammed Bello Shehu, in Abuja.

According to the INEC chairman, the Commission has lost some of its experienced workforce to migration in recent years due partly to inadequate remuneration, while many other senior officials are approaching retirement.

He said better welfare and competitive salaries would not only help retain skilled personnel but also boost staff morale, preserve institutional knowledge and strengthen public confidence in the electoral process.

Amupitan further sought increased and sustainable funding for INEC, noting that the Commission’s constitutional responsibilities extend beyond conducting elections to include continuous voter registration, political party registration and the management of pre-election and post-election matters.

He disclosed that INEC operates offices in all 36 states, the Federal Capital Territory and the 774 local government areas, making its operational demands and financial requirements substantial.

The INEC chairman also noted that governorship elections now cost more to conduct than the combined presidential and National Assembly elections, while calling for greater investment in electoral infrastructure, technology and staff training.

He reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to delivering credible elections, stating that the Presidential and National Assembly elections will hold on January 16, 2027, while governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections are scheduled for February 6, 2027.

Amupitan also announced that the Osun State governorship election will take place on August 15, 2026, adding that the recent Ekiti governorship election and several bye-elections were widely commended by both local and international observers.

Responding, RMAFC Chairman, Dr. Mohammed Bello Shehu, commended INEC for its consistency in conducting elections since 1999 and assured the Commission of continued collaboration and support towards the successful conduct of the 2027 general elections.